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Quick answer: Survey drones (UAVs) used for commercial surveying, mapping, and inspection are financeable as asset finance through Equipment Finance Specialists. Platforms from DJI (Matrice series), Wingtra, senseFly (now Parrot), and Trimble are well-recognised in the market. Lenders assess the drone system specification, operator certifications (CASA Remote Pilot Licence and Remote Operator Certificate), and business revenue profile. Finance terms of 2–5 years are typical.
The cost of a commercial survey drone system runs from $15,000 for an entry-level DJI Matrice setup to $80,000+ for a professional multi-sensor system with RTK and PPK capability.
What Survey Drone Systems Can Be Financed?
DJI Matrice 300 RTK and Matrice 350 RTK with Zenmuse P1 photogrammetry payload. DJI Matrice 30 series. Wingtra WingtraOne and WingtraOne Gen II. senseFly eBee X and eBee TAC. Trimble UAS products. Processing software licences (Pix4D, DJI Terra, Agisoft Metashape) – software finance depends on the lender. Ground control and base station GNSS receivers.
CASA Certification and Why It Matters for Finance
Commercial survey drone operations in Australia generally require a CASA Remote Pilot Licence (RePL) for the pilot AND a Remote Operator Certificate (ReOC) for the business, unless the operation falls within an excluded category (e.g. sub-2kg with CASA registration and accreditation). Include your RePL and ReOC numbers with your finance application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I finance a survey drone as a sole trader in Australia?
Yes. Sole trader CASA-licensed drone operators with demonstrated revenue from survey and inspection work are fundable. ABN age, business revenue, CASA certification status, and the drone specification are the key assessment factors.
What is the typical loan term for survey drone finance?
Typically 2–5 years, with some lenders extending to 7 years (84 months) for established businesses with strong credit profiles.
Call 1300 378 387 or visit equipment-finance.com.au.